Gunpowder-infused fabric or paper was being used for fuses around the 10th century, as well[0]. I always thought this depiction came from fireworks, which had fuses both linking multiple devices and also serving as a (relatively) safer point for ignition around the 10th century, as well[1].

[0] https://wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuse_(explosives)

[1] https://wikipedia.org/wiki/Fireworks